NOTE to parents, teachers, and educators of every kind:
Use this definition as a simple, kid-friendly teaching tool. Click this link to view the full index of current money terms and definitions, and learn how to use the Sammy Rabbit dictionary to support teaching and learning.
Word and Category
Word: Pay (Spend, Purchase)
Related Definition: Spend + Buy
Category: Action Word
What this category means: Action words describe things people do with money. They help children understand actions related to earning, spending, and managing money.
Definitions
In Simple Words
Pay means to give money to buy something.
You pay when money goes out to get what you want or need.
A Little More Grown-Up
To pay means to give money in exchange for goods or services you are buying. Paying is how people complete a purchase.
Context Clues
You may see the word “pay” in Sammy Rabbit stories and activities when kids buy something at a store, pay for a ticket, or give money at checkout.
Sammy Says Sentences
Sammy Says: “Pay attention when you pay so you give the right amount!”
Silly Sentence
I had to pay one jellybean and a wiggle to buy my sandwich.
Serious Sentence
People pay money to buy things they want or need.
Rhyming Sentences
Silly Rhyming Sentence:
I pay my way at the snack café, then hop on home without delay!
Serious Rhyming Sentence:
When I pay for things with care and thought, my money habits grow strong and taught.
Money Habit Sentences and Connection
Money Habit Sentences:
Paying without thinking can lead to a bad spending habit. Thinking before you pay can lead to a good money habit.
Share with kids:
Learning what it means to pay helps kids understand that buying something means money goes out and choices matter.
Examples of Pay
Paying for a snack
Paying for a toy
Paying for a movie ticket
Giving money to buy something
Examples of What Is Not Pay
Saving money
Investing money
Thinking about buying something without paying
Related Money Words
Spend • Buy • Expense • Money
Opposite Money Words
Earn • Receive
Questions for Kids
Ask your child or student: “What is something you paid for recently?”
Remember
Paying is how money goes out when you buy something, and thinking before you pay helps build strong money habits.
Get the Entire Dictionary in One PDF
Want a FREE printable PDF of the complete Sammy Rabbit Kid-Friendly Money Dictionary? Contact us to learn how to get a copy for your home, classroom, or community.
Keep Kids and Families Learning
Kids, families, and schools of every kind can enroll in Sammy Rabbit’s Money School with a FREE, PREMIUM or Group Discount Money School Memberships, giving learners access to engaging, age-appropriate financial education resources.
Parents, teachers, and community leaders are invited to explore the resources and teaching tips available on SammyRabbit.com, starting with award-winning financial educator Sam X Renick’s article series, Money Lessons Parents Should Teach Kids!
Schools, community organizations, employers, and partners can learn more about Sammy's Dream Big Financial Education curriculum, a flexible, standards-aligned approach designed to help children build strong money habits, confidence, and lifelong skills.
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